Hi from Bristol, UK

christof

Barefooters
Jun 30, 2014
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Hi!

I'm Chris and I'm from Bristol, UK.
A quick introduction of how I found myself here. I don't currently run, I used to, but unfortunately due to injury I'm no longer able to.

In 1998 I had a bad accident breaking my back, arm, legs and a pilon fracture of my right ankle.
I've since developed arthritis in my right ankle.

I've always been a heel striker which I've more recently related to bad days of pain in my ankle. I decided I'd like to try and change my walk to a mid/forefoot strike. I bought some Vivobarefoot Freud minimal shoes and started wearing them for my 30min commute to and from work. After getting used to them and feeling some minor aches in my legs I've noticed a marked improvement in my ankle. I wear the Freuds all day on a casual dress Friday at work and it's still improving. Next is to find some minimal work shoes I like.

I'm aware I'm no longer protecting my ankle with cushioned soles and am taking it steady and slowly.

Any advice will be greatly received, work shoe suggestions or otherwise.
 
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Reactions: Barefoot TJ
Sorry to hear about your accident Chris but even more glad to read that you are overcoming the problems it caused.
It sounds like you are doing the right things by taking it steady and slowly - you must have had a good deal of experience listening to your body!
There's a member in Chepstow who might be able to give you some practical advice - you'll probably be hearing from him soon!
 
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Reactions: Phil Hart
There's a member in Chepstow who might be able to give you some practical advice - you'll probably be hearing from him soon!

Wow, is that excellent local knowledge DNE or did you look on the member map? :)

Hi Chris,

I am indeed in Chepstow, just over the bridge from you. Whilst I cannot advise you much on dealing with arthritis, I can maybe help you with suggestions of minimal shoe types, or maybe local barefoot-friendly biomechanics or podiatrists?

Cheers,

Paul
.
 
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Reactions: Hulahooper
Welcome!
 
thanks for the welcome!

I'm currently looking for some skate trainer style minimal trainers, already have the Vivobarefoot Freud and also some smart suit shoes. All suggestions welcomed.

Thanks!
 
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Reactions: Phil Hart
Skate trainers are basically lace-up plimsolls aren't they? Some people swear by Primark plimsolls as a cheap minimal shoe. You could also look at Aqua shoes. Minimal dress shoes are much more difficult to find. You may have to ship from US. I wear black Sockwa at work.